Everything you need for a perfect pool party

Getting the gang together to hang around the pool is one of the best parts of summer. With warm weather just around the corner, it is time to start planning a pool party to remember! 

Are theme parties out of fashion? Not at all! Pool parties are made for themes: tropics, disco, Mexican fiesta…the possibilities are endless! What’s more, the theme will make planning all the rest – decorations, food, music – a snap!

Get the word out with beautiful invitations. Include information about the time, the theme and any other important details your guests need to know.

A successful pool party starts with loads of floaties in the pool. Unicorns, pineapples, cacti or pink flamingos, giant inflatable balls are always a hit. Blow up colourful balloons and throw them into the pool, they will look great among the toys! 

Make sure you have enough outdoor furniture for your guests to lounge around on: folding chairs, outdoor stools, loungers, armchairs, blankets, even a hammock or hanging chair. And don't forget to create shaded areas for those who like to stay out of the sun!

Every great pool party has music! Create a playlist that suits your theme, the different times of day and your guests. You can stick to pieces that fit your theme or mix different styles. Plan on between 150 and 200 tracks.

In the hot summer sun, your guests will need to stay hydrated, so don't skimp on cold drinks: lemonade, fruity cocktails, flavoured water, smoothies, etc. Tip: buy big bags of ice cubes, they will come in handy!

You need not go to the trouble of a big meal; the idea is simply to have a good time with friends. Buffet and tapas are always winners. You can also focus on your theme. For example, for a Mexican fiesta, prepare nachos, tacos, fajitas... ayayaye!

Planning to partying into the evening? Think about creating a festive glow with well-placed landscape lighting: solar lamps, garden lanterns, hanging lanterns in trees, garlands of lights, floating lamps, etc.

If children are present at the party, be sure to give them clear instructions and remind them of the safety rules to be followed. Extra care should be taken on party days. Do not assume that a group of adults around the pool will automatically supervise children in the pool. It is essential to designate someone to be responsible for supervision. Prepare a SUPERVISOR card that identifies the person in charge when children are in or near the water. Finally, lock the pool gate once everyone has left the pool. 

Be a good neighbour: tell your neighbours in advance that you are organising a pool party and that there may be games, music... and therefore noise in the afternoon and evening. It’s a sign of respect and good manners to let them know so that they may then organise themselves accordingly. Plus, it goes a long way in maintaining good neighbourly relations!